The compatibility of the components of the vacuum blood collection system is the key to successful and safe venipuncture

When taking blood from a vein for laboratory tests, nurses may have situations related to the use of vacuum systems (VS) from different manufacturers. Most often this is due to the requirements of tender purchases, when vacuum containers (VC) and double-sided needles are placed in different LOTs. To understand the depth of the problem, we developed a questionnaire and conducted an online survey of 188 nurses of hospitals in Moscow, which showed that almost half of the respondents (42.2%) experienced difficulties related to the compatibility of components from different manufacturers, which negatively affected the test results, increased direct and hidden costs of the medical organization. The authors analyze the results of the survey and give recommendations on how to avoid such problems: use components of vacuum blood collection system from one manufacturer or, if this is not possible, conduct compatibility testing of the components before use. The authors suggest ways to check for compatibility, referring to domestic and international recommendations. These measures will ensure safer and more effective venipuncture